These Photos From The Past 100 Years And The Stories Behind Them Will Send Chills Down Your Spine

Last prisoners leave Alcatraz, 1963

Many decades have already passed since the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary stopped operating, but it still fascinates a lot of because of its spectacular structure and stories. The prison was practically built for prisoners who wreaked havoc at other facilities. At the time it was known as escape proof because it was strategically placed in the cold waters and strong currents of San Francisco Bay.

Unfortunately, it came to a point where the government could not afford the Alcatraz any longer. After a 1962 escape attempt, the prison was shut down and the prisoners were dispersed to various Federal prisons across the country. Alcatraz only operated from 1934 to 1963, so those who were able to visit probably had more idea how it felt.